Traveling overseas is very exciting and fun. However, it is best to prepare all the essentials before going to a foreign country. That way you won’t encounter any problems there.
Here are eight helpful tips that will guide you in planning:
1. Update your passport and apply for visas
Take a look at your passport before scheduling your next international trip.
It’s better to check if it’s expired or near expiration, so you can renew it. This way, there won’t be any delays on your desired scheduled trip. You must ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months while you’re in a different country.
If the country you’re going to requires you to get a visa, then you should process requirements for that as well. Application varies in each country, so make sure that you research the processes you need to take. You must take note that it can also be costly and time-consuming, so it’s best if you process it months before your trip.
We also recommend having copies of these essential documents in case you lose them. Doing so ensures that you won’t be in trouble with the system just because you lost your documents.
2. Prepare your finances
This is imperative if you don’t want to have any hassle during your vacation. Call your local bank and credit card providers to notify them that you’ll be travel internationally for a couple of weeks.
This way, when they notice the foreign transactions happening on your account, they won’t freeze your card.
It would help if you also take note of the exchange rate and how much things usually cost in the country you’re visiting. This way, you’ll be able to estimate your expenses and plan your budget well.
3. Save Money by Comparing Transportation & Accommodation Option
Traveling is not cheap; that’s why you should find ways on how you can save money.
Take your transportation and accommodation, for example. You can’t always roam around a foreign country in a taxi or a cab just because it’s convenient. It will be too expensive.
Take the bus, trains, and other modes of transportation available there that are way cheaper.
With accommodations, don’t book the first hotel you see. Give yourself the chance to browse through other options like hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb too.
You can check out websites for these where prices are already visible so you can quickly determine which is the cheapest yet quality option to take.
By saving money in transportation and accommodation, you will have an additional budget for your food or other more fun activities you can do.
4. Book Everything in Advance
Always book everything in advance, especially your airfare and accommodation.
A good 3-4 months in advance will do. This way, you’ll be able to get the best and lowest deals.
Flying on weekdays are also much cheaper than flying on weekends so you should consider that too.
5. Research events going on while you’re there
Traveling is about learning about other cultures and meeting new people. So when you visit a foreign country, it’s best if you don’t miss any events there.
Do your research beforehand so you can prepare your itinerary better.
Take note of the festivals, ceremonies, and other happenings in your destination. Try out some national dishes too. You’re in a different country, and you shouldn’t miss out on the fun.
6. Pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag
Pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag when you travel. This way, when you encounter problems at the airport, such as your check-in baggage missing, you wouldn’t have to worry about not having clothes to wear for a few days.
It’s best if you pack all the needed essentials in your carry-on bag. It’s also great to buy the best checked luggage that you can trust to bring along wherever you go.
There will be instances where you will be hopping from one place to another so you can’t carry the bigger baggage.
7. Bring snacks
You’re in a foreign country, and although exploring can be fun, it’s still better to keep your tummy full.
However, finding a good restaurant in a foreign country can be quite a task. Bringing snacks with you means you don’t have to worry about being hungry while you search for a food stall in the area.
8. Check-in with your doctor and insurance carrier.
Before traveling in a foreign country, make sure to check in with your doctor to ensure that you have all your shots, vaccines, and prescriptions complete. Remember, you’re a foreigner in another country, so you are not yet part of their healthcare policy.
You can also check with your medical insurance provider if the policy you have also applied in emergencies abroad. If not, then you might need to add some extras.
Any trip can be more fun if you plan ahead of time. With the eight tips above, you will surely have a trip worth remembering.
Comments